Plan your successful turkey hunt in Wisconsin with the most up-to-date information on the 2024-2025 season. This guide provides essential details on season dates, regulations, hunting hours, and licensing to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, understanding these key aspects is crucial for ethical and legal hunting.
2024-2025 Turkey Season Dates
Wisconsin offers both Fall and Spring turkey hunting seasons. The Fall 2024 Turkey Season runs from September through November or January, depending on the specific turkey management zone. All seven turkey management zones across Wisconsin will be open for hunting during the fall season.
For those planning ahead, here are the preliminary dates for the 2025-2026 seasons:
| 2025 – 2026 Seasons | Dates |
|---|---|
| 2025 Spring Turkey Youth Hunt | April 12–13 |
| Spring 2025 | |
| Period A | April 16–22 |
| Period B | April 23–29 |
| Period C | April 30 – May 6 |
| Period D | May 7–13 |
| Period E | May 14–20 |
| Period F | May 21–27 |
| Fall 2025 | |
| Zones 1-5 | Nov. 22 – Jan. 4, 2026 |
| Statewide | Sept. 13 – Nov. 21 |
It’s important to always consult the official Fall 2024- Spring 2025 Combined Hunting Regulations for the complete and detailed list of rules before heading out.
Understanding Turkey Hunting Hours
Shooting hours for turkey hunting in Wisconsin vary depending on the time of year and your location within the state. The state is divided into Northern and Southern areas, each with specific hunting hour schedules. Always verify the precise legal hunting hours for your chosen zone and date to comply with regulations.
Northern Area
Southern Area
Hunters must be aware of the specific sunrise and sunset times for their hunting location to ensure they are hunting within legal hours.
2024-2025 Fall Turkey Harvest Numbers
Here’s a look at the preliminary harvest numbers from the Fall 2024 turkey season, updated on January 7, 2025. This data provides insights into harvest success across different zones.
| Zone | Harvest |
|---|---|
| 1 | 667 |
| 2 | 1,309 |
| 3 | 970 |
| 4 | 771 |
| 5 | 335 |
| 6 | 397 |
| 7 | 213 |
| Total | 4,662 |
Obtaining Your Wisconsin Hunting License and Turkey Stamp
Purchasing your hunting license and necessary stamps in Wisconsin is straightforward through the Go Wild platform.
Visit https://gowild.wi.gov/ to easily acquire your licenses and registrations online. A turkey hunting license, wild turkey stamp, and a harvest authorization are required to legally hunt turkey in Wisconsin.
Special Reminder: Don’t forget that registration for the Spring Turkey Season is due annually on December 10th.
Authorization Transfers: Wisconsin allows for the transfer of awarded permits or harvest authorizations under specific conditions. If you are authorized to purchase a license for a permit or harvest authorization issued via a cumulative preference drawing, you may transfer it to another qualified individual. Details on this process can be found on the Authorization Transfer webpage.
Bonus Harvest Authorizations
After the initial preference drawing, any remaining turkey harvest authorizations become available as bonus harvest authorizations. These are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, with sales dates varying by zone, starting with the first zone on March 18th. Hunters are limited to purchasing one bonus harvest authorization per day until they are sold out or the season concludes. For more details, refer to the Spring Bonus Harvest Authorizations and Fall Bonus Harvest Authorizations pages.
Fort McCoy Hunting Permits
Please note that since March 2019, Fort McCoy hunting and fishing permits are managed through Fort McCoy’s iSportsman system, iSportsman. Go Wild is no longer used for on-base hunting and fishing privileges at Fort McCoy.
Spring Turkey Drawing System
Spring turkey harvest authorizations are allocated through a preference-based drawing system. When applying, hunters can select two preferred time period-zone combinations and an additional “any time” zone option. To maximize your chances in the drawing, it’s recommended to diversify your choices by listing all periods and zones you are willing to accept. It’s important to understand that harvest authorizations cannot be exchanged for different time periods or zones after being issued. For comprehensive information on the drawing and preference point system, consult the Turkey Hunting Frequently Asked Questions.
Explore Wisconsin’s Turkey Hunting Programs
Wisconsin is dedicated to fostering hunting participation and offers several programs to support both new and experienced hunters.
Mentored Hunting Program
The Mentored Hunting Program is an excellent opportunity for individuals born on or after January 1, 1973, to experience hunting without needing to complete Hunter Education first. Participants must hunt under the direct supervision of a licensed mentor, remaining within arm’s reach at all times and adhering to all program requirements. This program is designed to introduce newcomers to hunting and preserve Wisconsin’s hunting heritage.
Learn To Hunt Program
The Learn to Hunt Program provides a structured educational experience outside of the regular hunting season. It’s aimed at inexperienced hunters of all ages, offering classroom and field instruction from certified Hunter Education instructors and mentors. Participants are paired with mentors to ensure a safe, high-quality, and rewarding first-time hunting experience. Many of these events are organized by local conservation clubs in partnership with the DNR.
Opportunities for Hunters with Disabilities
Wisconsin is committed to inclusivity in outdoor recreation and provides various hunting permits for individuals with disabilities. Turkey hunters with Class A, B, or C disabled hunting permits can apply for the Wild Turkey Hunt for People with Disabilities using Forms 2300-271 and 2300-271A. These applications are specifically for designated private land and must be submitted by December 10th. Hunters applying for a disabled hunt on private land cannot also apply for a harvest authorization through the regular spring turkey drawing.
Spring Youth Hunt
The annual Youth Hunt in Wisconsin is designed to give young hunters a dedicated opportunity to hunt and gain valuable experience without the pressures of competing with more experienced hunters. Open to resident and nonresident hunters under 16, participants need a valid spring turkey license, stamp, and harvest authorization. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult age 18 or older and must have completed Hunter Education or be enrolled in the Mentored Hunting Program. Youth hunters can utilize a harvest authorization for any time period but are restricted to the turkey management zone specified on their approval. All other spring turkey hunting regulations are in effect during the Youth Hunt.
Finding Public Hunting Land in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers diverse hunting lands, including both private and public options. Turkey hunting is divided into seven management zones, and your harvest authorization specifies the zone where you are permitted to hunt.
Public Access Lands
During the spring turkey season, hunters can access 40,000 acres of private land through walk-on access. The DNR collaborates with private landowners through the Turkey Hunter Access Program (THAP) and the Voluntary Public Access (VPA) Program, supported by the USDA, to lease hunting habitats. Additionally, lands enrolled in the Managed Forest Law (MFL) and Forest Crop Law (FCL) programs are also open to public recreation, including turkey hunting.
Utilize available resources to locate your next hunting spot:
Turkey Hunting Safety: Tips and Guide
Safety is paramount when turkey hunting. Most accidents occur due to hunters mistaking other hunters for game.
Wearing blaze orange while moving, such as a cap or gloves, is highly recommended. When calling turkeys, position yourself against a tree or wide object to protect your back, not only from accidental shots but also from a turkey’s keen eyesight. Review the printable Turkey hunting safety tips for more detailed advice.
Essential Safety Rules for a Successful Hunt
- Use gobble calls sparingly, primarily for locating a tom, and avoid overcalling to prevent being mistaken for a turkey by other hunters.
- Keep your hands and head fully camouflaged when making calls.
- Never stalk a turkey and avoid approaching closer than 100 yards to a gobbler.
- Choose a calling location that offers a clear view of at least 40 yards in all directions.
- Always keep decoys covered when carrying or moving them.
- Adhere to the four basic rules of firearm safety – TABK:
- T = Treat every firearm as loaded.
- A = Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
- B = Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
- K = Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
Wisconsin Turkey Hunter’s Guide
For more in-depth information, consult the Wisconsin turkey hunter’s Guide.
Turkey Hunt FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Hunting in Wisconsin
What are the recent changes to the turkey season?
- Tagging regulations for harvested turkeys were updated in September 2017. See the Turkey Carcass Tag FAQ for details.
- The fall turkey drawing has been waived since 2018. See “How do I get a fall turkey harvest authorization?” below for more information.
What do I need to participate in the turkey hunt?
You need a turkey harvest authorization, a turkey license, and a wild turkey stamp to hunt wild turkey in Wisconsin. These can be purchased through Go Wild and are included with a Conservation Patron License or a Senior Citizen Recreation Card. Spring turkey harvest authorizations are obtained through a drawing or as bonus authorizations. Visit the turkey hunting webpage for details.
How do I get a spring turkey harvest authorization?
Apply for spring turkey harvest authorizations via a preference-based drawing system. A $3 application is required, available at DNR service centers, licensed agents, or online through Go Wild. The application deadline is December 10th. Check your application status through Go Wild. Successful applicants are notified by mail. Bonus authorizations are sold over-the-counter after the drawing.
How is preference determined for the spring harvest authorization drawing?
Preference is based on residency, land ownership, and preference points, with resident landowners having the highest preference, followed by residents with preference points, other residents, nonresident landowners, and finally, other nonresidents.
How do I know if I successfully drew a harvest authorization in the spring turkey drawing?
The drawing occurs in late January. Successful applicants are notified by postcard. You can also check your status on Go Wild, at a DNR service center, or by calling 1-888-WDNRINFO (1-888-936-7463).
What state parks are open to spring turkey hunting?
Find information on hunting in state parks for specific locations and regulations.
Are the spring zones the same as the fall hunting zones?
Yes, the zones are consistent across seasons. Refer to the Wild Turkey Management Zones map.
How do I get a fall turkey harvest authorization?
Since 2018, a fall turkey harvest authorization is included with each fall turkey or conservation patron license at no extra cost. Choose your hunting zone at the time of purchase. Bonus fall turkey harvest authorizations for select zones are available starting in August.
What do I need to carry with me while hunting?
You must carry a valid copy of your license, stamp, and harvest authorization. This can be a DNR-issued Conservation Card, a Go Wild validated WI driver’s license, a Go Wild digital file, or a paper printout.
How do I register my turkey?
Registration is mandatory and must be completed by 5 p.m. the day after harvest. Use your harvest authorization number to register online or by phone via GameReg. In-person registration is no longer available.
How do I get a copy of the wild turkey stamp?
While a physical stamp is not required, you can request a collector stamp after purchasing electronically through Go Wild. Obtain a copy at a DNR service center or request it by mail. More information is on the collector stamp webpage.
Game Brood Survey
Participate in the Game Brood Survey from August 1st to 31st by reporting your observations of game bird broods to aid wildlife management efforts through the Game Brood Survey.
What is the bag limit?
The spring season bag limit is one bearded or male turkey per harvest authorization. The fall season limit is one turkey of either sex or age per authorization.
What are preference points?
Preference points increase your priority in the spring turkey drawing if you were unsuccessful in previous seasons. Points accumulate but expire if you do not apply at least once every 3 years. Receiving a harvest authorization resets your points to zero.
What is landowner preference?
Resident or nonresident landowners of 50 or more contiguous acres in a selected zone can qualify for landowner preference within that specific zone for their first choice of zone and time period. Jointly owned land qualifies only one owner for preference.
How do group applications work?
Groups up to ten can apply together for the spring turkey drawing, designating a group leader and using the leader’s DNR customer ID on each application. The lowest preference level within the group is used for the drawing. Landowner preference for groups requires all members to be eligible and claim it for the same zone and time period.
What opportunities are there for disabled turkey hunting?
Information on spring turkey hunting opportunities for people with disabilities is available for those with qualifying permits.
Do I need a license to assist other hunters?
No license is required to call turkeys if you are not carrying a firearm or bow. However, a guide license is necessary if you charge a fee for your guiding services.
Can I shoot a turkey for another hunter?
No, it is illegal to harvest a turkey for another hunter.
Can I hunt turkey with the aid of dogs or bait?
- Baiting is prohibited for turkey hunting.
- Dogs are permitted for fall turkey hunting but not during the spring season.
Should We Feed Wild Turkey?
Learn about the implications of feeding wild turkeys by reading Should We Feed Wild Turkeys?.
Register Your Harvested Wild Turkey
Mandatory registration is required for all harvested turkeys by 5 p.m. the day after harvest.
Registration is entirely electronic, available 24/7 via GameReg online or by calling the Harvest Registration Hotline: 1-844-426-3734.
Have the following information ready for registration:
- Harvest authorization number
- Harvest date and time
- Harvest location (county and turkey management zone)
- Age (adult or juvenile)
- Sex (gobbler or hen)
Upon successful registration, a 10-character confirmation number will be issued for your records.
NOTE: Age determination (adult or juvenile) relies on examining only the first two primary wing feathers.
Guide to aging and sexing a turkey
First Harvest Certificate
Apply for a First Turkey Harvest Certificate to commemorate a hunter’s first turkey harvest. Submit the form and a field photo via the First Harvest Certificates webpage.
Understanding HPAI in Wild Turkeys
HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) has been detected in Wisconsin, primarily in domestic poultry and some waterfowl and raptors. Wild turkeys are generally less susceptible due to their habitat preferences and behaviors, which reduce their exposure to avian influenza viruses.
However, hunters should never harvest birds that appear sick. If you observe an ill turkey, report it to the DNR’s Wildlife Switchboard via email at [email protected] or by voicemail at 608-267-0866.
This HPAI strain does not pose a food safety risk, but proper handling and cooking of game meat are always recommended. Cook harvested birds to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Consult the USDA website for further recommendations for hunters and visit the DNR’s wildlife diseases page for more information on avian influenza and other wildlife diseases.
